Alex Cutler

3 weeks ago | journal-news.com | Alex Cutler

According to the zoo, the delay was caused by a several issues occurring during construction. One of these incidents involved a glass plane in the black bear exhibit breaking during installation. Since the black bear, Stevie, had not been moved to his new home, none of the other animals or workers were in danger. The zoo also mentioned the large amount of rain in the area as a factor in the delay, as well as making sure the animals have enough time to acclimate to their new exhibits.

1 month ago | journal-news.com | Alex Cutler

Kings Island opened the family launch coaster Italian Job: Stunt Track in 2005. It was based on the 2003 remake of classic heist film. Guests would board trains modeled after the film’s iconic and launch into a special effects-filled layout, reaching speeds of 40 mph. After Kings Island and its sister parks were sold to Cedar Fair in 2006, the ride was renamed to Backlot Stunt Coaster. To celebrate the attraction’s 20th anniversary, Kings Island decided to reimagine the ride.

1 month ago | journal-news.com | Alex Cutler

ExploreAfter months of maintenance, Cedar Point has announced Top Thrill 2 will reopen with the park May 3. However, the new coaster coming to Cedar Point this year, Siren’s Curse, will not operate on opening day. Built by Dutch manufacturer Vekoma, the ride is an installation of the rare Tilt Coaster model, which angles the track 90 degrees before guests plunge through its first drop.

1 month ago | journal-news.com | Alex Cutler

When: June 26-29Location: 7700 Vine St., CincinnatiDescription: This year, the Hamilton County Fair will offer a demolition derby, KOI drag races, a petting zoo, games and more. Local vendors will attend the event, selling food, crafts and other items. ExploreWhen: July 5-12Location: 268 S. Nelson Ave., WilmingtonDescription: The Clinton County Fair has been a staple of the area since 1883. For 2025, the fair will feature truck and tractor pulls, OHHA harness racing, demolition derbies and more.

2 months ago | journal-news.com | Alex Cutler

ExploreThis retracking will mainly focus on the area right before the ride’s second hill, its mid-course tunnel and the brake shed. By the time of its completion, it’s estimated more than 20% of the Beast’s track will be replaced. Upon its opening in 1979, the Beast was crowned the longest roller coaster in the world at 7,361 feet. While the ride has since lost this title, with the longest currently being Steel Dragon 2000 in Japan, its legendary status has remained.